First phase of Census 2027
- The first phase of Census 2027, the houselisting operations (HLO) phase, will be conducted from April 1 to September 30 across all States and Union Territories.
- This phase will be conducted in each State over a 30-day period, with the specific dates to be notified by the States.
- The second phase of the Census is the population enumeration phase in February 2027.
- Census 2027 will be the 16th census of India and 8th since Independence covering the entire population and providing granular village town and ward level data on housing amenities demography education economic activity migration and more.
- India’s 2027 Census brings digital tools, self-enumeration, GPS tracking, and caste data collection for the first time since 1931.
Kerala’s new language Bill
- Context: The Karnataka government has opposed the Malayalam Bhasha Bill, 2025, which makes Malayalam a compulsory first language in all schools across Kerala.
- A similar language Bill passed in 2017 was rejected by the President, strengthening Karnataka’s objection.
- As per Article 350 and Article 350A, it is the duty of the State government to protect rights of linguistic minorities.
- Article 350 – Languages to be used in representations for redress of grievances.
- Article 350A – Facilities for instruction in mother-tongue at primary stage
Centre Moves to Restore Elected Government in Manipur
- Context: The Centre is holding talks to restore a popular government in Manipur, which will complete one year under President’s Rule on February 13.
- President’s Rule cannot be extended beyond one year without a Constitution amendment Bill in Parliament.
- Article 355: Obligation of the Union to safeguard states from external aggression and internal disturbances.
- Article 356: It allows the President to take over the functions of the state government when the constitutional machinery fails.
- Article 365: Consequences of failing to comply with or implement directions issued by the Union.
- The 44th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1978 introduced a provision allowing the extension of the President’s Rule beyond one year, six months at a time, only under two specific conditions:
- A proclamation of National Emergency is in effect throughout India or in the entire state or any part of it.
- The Election Commission of India (ECI) certifies that general elections for the Legislative Assembly of the state cannot be conducted due to certain difficulties.
- The President of India can revoke the President’s Rule at any time with a proclamation, and this does not require parliamentary approval.
